Gizmo of The Week

Zap It! Game

The Zap It! Game Gizmo offers a unique way for students to test their knowledge of quadratic functions. Given a random scatter of points, the challenge is to create a function whose graph intersects (or “zaps”) as many points as possible. This can be done in polynomial form or in vertex form, or both. You can choose either a random scatter of points, or a set of “perfect fit” points. With the “perfect fit” option, there is a function that will intersect all 10 points! (With the random scatter, you may only be able to “zap” three or four points.)

Experimenting with this Gizmo really challenges students’ knowledge of quadratics. How does each coefficient in the equation affect the graph? If you come up with a “perfect fit” equation in polynomial form, can you also do it in vertex form? How about vice versa?

Try this Gizmo for a change of pace in your quadratics unit! You may like the type of thinking it leads to in your students. And start using this and other Gizmos today! Sign up for a free account!